Melnor Metal Pulsating (Impact) Sprinkler on Step-Spike Review (2026)
By Nate Sawyer, Editor · Updated July 2026
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- Lawn coverage
- Large areas
- Windy yards
The tough, cheap choice for big or round areas and breezy sites where an oscillator drifts. The metal head lasts and the arc adjusts from a sliver to a full circle. Downsides: it wastes water on square lawns and you'll be relocating the spike to cover ground.
Pros
- All-metal head and step-spike survive years and throw water up to about 85 ft across
- Adjustable arc from a narrow slice to a full circle waters odd-shaped or oversized areas
- The heavy pulsating jet punches through wind far better than a fan-style sprinkler
Cons
- A circular pattern wastes water on square lawns through corner gaps or overspray
- A single spike stays in one spot, so covering a big yard means moving it by hand
- Coarse droplets can disturb fresh seedbeds and it needs decent pressure to reach its full range
Specifications
| Type | Impact (pulsating) sprinkler |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Up to 85 ft diameter (~5,600 sq ft) |
| Pattern | Adjustable arc, partial to full circle |
| Material | Zinc metal head with 3-prong metal step-spike |
| Adjustment | Distance and arc adjustable |
| Best for | Large or round areas and windy yards |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far will an impact sprinkler throw?
- Up to about 85 ft in diameter, roughly 5,600 sq ft, provided you have decent water pressure. Low pressure noticeably shortens that reach, which is the usual reason one underperforms.
- Can you water a half circle with it?
- Yes — the arc adjusts from a narrow slice to a full circle, so you can keep water off a driveway or fence line rather than soaking it.
- Is an impact sprinkler bad for new grass?
- It can be. The coarse droplets can disturb a fresh seedbed, where a gentle oscillating fan is kinder. The all-metal head and step-spike are built to last years, which is its other main advantage.